The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) have signed an agreement to explore the use of advanced nuclear technology in commercial maritime applications, including nuclear-powered vessels and floating power plants.

Announced on October 13, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishes a framework for feasibility studies, technical research, and coordination between government agencies and industry. The effort will also examine the ports, shipyards, and industrial infrastructure needed to build and support nuclear-powered maritime systems.

The agreement brings together the DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy and ABS, a maritime classification society that develops technical standards for ships and offshore facilities. The partners aim to assess how advanced nuclear technology could be applied safely to commercial operations at sea.

The agreement identifies floating nuclear power solutions and nuclear transportation corridors as key areas for concept and feasibility studies. It also includes support for developing a U.S. shipbuilding sector capable of building and operating nuclear-powered assets.

Floating nuclear power plants could provide electricity from marine-based platforms, while nuclear-powered vessels would use onboard reactors for propulsion. However, the MOU does not specify particular reactor designs, vessel projects, locations, or construction timelines. is focuses on assessing the feasibility of these applications rather than committing to specific projects.

The work will consider technical, regulatory, economic, and policy questions associated with establishing a maritime nuclear sector. These assessments are intended to help determine what would be required to move potential applications beyond the conceptual stage.

Under the agreement, ABS will co-manage the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group (MNAG), a research hub and resource center focused on maritime nuclear technology.

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